ILLINOIS
Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP-IL)
Illinois state funding for security upgrades to nonprofits at high risk of targeted threats.
$450K
Up to $150K per site, max 3 sites
State
Funded by IEMA-OHS
What Is NSGP-IL?
The Illinois Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP-IL) provides state funding for security upgrades to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in Illinois that are at high risk of threats, attacks, or acts of terrorism. It is administered by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security.
NSGP-IL is separate from the federal NSGP. Illinois organizations can apply for both. Organizations with multiple sites can apply for up to three sites, at $150,000 per site, for a maximum of $450,000. Each site requires its own separate application with a site-specific vulnerability assessment.
Key differences from federal NSGP: organizations providing primarily medical or mental health services are excluded. Proposed projects cannot duplicate an awarded or pending federal grant application. Illinois organizations can still request state funding in the same equipment category as a federal application, as long as the state funds supplement rather than replace the federal request.
Who Is Eligible?
- 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in Illinois
- Houses of worship, religious schools, faith-based and cultural nonprofits
-
- Owns or leases the facility named in the application
- Documented high risk of threat, attack, or acts of terrorism based on the organization's profile, ideology, mission, or beliefs
- Documented high risk of threat, attack, or acts of terrorism based on the organization's profile, ideology, mission, or beliefs
- Compliance with Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) application requirements
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
Allowable expenses under the Illinois Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP-IL) typically include:
Physical Security Equipment
Barriers, fencing, lighting, reinforced doors and windows, bollards
Surveillance and Monitoring
CCTV cameras, intrusion detection systems
Access Control
Card readers, electronic locks, key fob systems
Communication Systems
Emergency communications and mass notification tools
Security Training
Active threat training, emergency preparedness exercises, drills
Contract Security Personnel
Professional security services (with restrictions)
Application Process for the NSGP-IL
The NSGP-IL is competitive. Applications are submitted to Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), which reviews and scores them against state and federal criteria. A strong application requires a documented threat case, a vulnerability assessment, and a written Investment Justification.
The period of performance for awarded grants typically runs one to three years. We track deadlines for Illinois and advise on timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers about applying for the Illinois Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP-IL).
Who can apply for the NSGP-IL?
Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in Illinois that can document a high risk of threat, attack, or acts of terrorism based on their profile, ideology, mission, or beliefs. This typically includes houses of worship, religious schools, and faith-based or cultural organizations. The nonprofit must own or lease the facility named in the application and occupy it at the time of application.
How much funding can an Illinois nonprofit receive through NSGP-IL?
IEMA-OHS sets award amounts each cycle. Current guidance: up to $150,000 per site, with a maximum of $450,000 for organizations applying across up to three sites. Each site requires its own separate application.
Who administers the NSGP-IL and where do I find the official source?
NSGP-IL is administered by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS). The official source for solicitations, NOFOs, and current-cycle deadlines is IEMA-OHS's NSGP-IL page: iemaohs.illinois.gov/hs/hsac/nsgp-il.html.
When does the Illinois application window open and close?
Dates are set annually by IEMA-OHS and vary by cycle. The most recent cycle (SFY25) ran from March 28, 2025 to July 1, 2025.
What can NSGP-IL funds be used for?
Allowable expenses include physical security equipment (cameras, locks, barriers, access control), inspection and screening systems, cybersecurity enhancements, handheld radios and public warning systems, active shooter and security training, and contracted security personnel (funds cover personnel costs, not equipment for them).
Does the NSGP-IL require a match or cost share?
No.